Simon C. Beede, M.D.

A 4"x6" glass plate negative, portrait photograph of Simon C. Beede, taken the same year the young physician founded the David City Hospital. The doctor is wearing a three-piece suit and tie, and eyeglasses.

Simon Beede was born in Murray, Iowa, November 11, 1864, to Eli and Margaret Beede, the youngest of their five children. He grew up helping with chores on their family farm in Clark County, Iowa. Simon graduated from the University of Iowa and taught for several years before entering the College of Medicine at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa. Shortly after his graduation from medical school, in 1891, he came to Surprise, Nebraska, and started his medical practice. He married Permilia "Millie" Clark, October 1893. In August 1899, the Beede family moved to David City, where Simon continued his medical practice. His practice grew rapidly and within a few months he and Dr. H.E. Burdick began practicing together. In 1901, they started the David City hospital and in 1906, they erected a new hospital building. By 1910, a major addition was added to the building. The hospital was subsequently incorporated and stocks were issued. Dr. Beede was in practice in David City for 25 years. He was also active in both state and national medical associations, and was one of the 500 founders of the American College of Surgeons. Simon and Millie Beede were the parents of three children: Clark, Ivan and Margaret. Dr. Beede died June 1, 1916, and is buried in the David City Cemetery.